Airbus says A350 'progressing well' to first flight

Europe's newest passenger jet, the A350, is "progressing well on its route to first flight," manufacturer Airbus said on Monday.

The planemaker issued the comment after the first flyable aircraft left the paint shop in Airbus colors, ahead of final testing and a maiden flight expected in coming weeks.

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The paint job indicates the flight is fast approaching, but Airbus has abandoned the traditional grand "rollout" party as it gives priority to project execution following a series of industry delays, Reuters reported last week.

The aircraft "will soon start the final tests before its maiden flight this summer," Airbus said in a statement.